Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Sharon Flinn

Positive Impact on the Classroom:  Dr. Sharon Flinn teaches in the Occupational Therapy Division at Davenport University. Her courses include analysis of environment, task, and activity; research and scholarship, evaluation and intervention of upper limb injuries; and occupational therapy in behavioral and mental health. She also serves as the co-advisor for Active Minds-DU, a registered student organization. Active Minds-DU received the 2016 Student Recognition for Outstanding New Organization of the Year and the Award for Outstanding Officer.

Timeliness of Impact: Dr. Flinn has been chosen for inclusion into the 2017 American Occupational Therapy Association Roster of Fellows.  The Roster of Fellows recognizes members of The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), who with their knowledge and expertise have made a significant contribution to the continuing education and professional development of members of the Association.  The 2017 recipients will be formally recognized at the national annual conference in Philadelphia in April.

Range of Impact: Dr. Flinn’s impact has been far-reaching and profoundly moving.  In recognition of her contributions, the following statement will appear on her award: “Outstanding Contributions to Hand and Limb Rehabilitation.”  Her research has led to the development and use of the Flinn Performance Screening Tool.  The tool empowers patients to take responsibility for their care and rehabilitation, to collaborate with their caregivers in achieving greater levels of function and independence.

Personal Note: Dr. Flinn has presented at local, state, national, and international conferences. She recently received the 2016 DEI Leadership Award.  Dr. Flinn has published in other areas including return to work, orthotics, and farming with arthritis. The American Society of Hand Therapists (ASHT) in the Lifetime Fellowship Award recognized her work.